Italy may want to take notice: Norway, a likely rival in the road to the 2026 World Cup should the Azzurri fall to Germany in the Nations League, delivered a resounding 5-0 win over Moldova to open their qualifying group campaign in style.
Playing in Chisinau, the Norwegians dominated from the first whistle. Ryerson opened the scoring early, followed by a clinical finish from Haaland. Despite losing Ostigard to injury, Norway kept up the pressure with goals from Aasgaard, Sorloth—fed by Odegaard—and finally Donnum, who came off the bench to seal the rout.
In the same group, Israel came from behind to defeat Estonia 2-1. After conceding to Paskotsi, the hosts equalized through an own goal by Hein and secured the win with Dasa’s late strike.
2026 World Cup: first six teams secure spot, Taremi leads Iran to qualification
25 Mar - 23:09 •
1' min
The other matches. Patrik Schick rescued the Czech Republic with two goals in a 2-1 win over the Faroe Islands. Wales pulled away in the second half to beat Kazakhstan 4-1. Montenegro overcame an early scare from Gibraltar to win 3-1, with Jovetic, Tuci, and Marusic on target. North Macedonia comfortably beat Liechtenstein 3-0, with Elmas playing all 90 minutes.
